Purchasing Specialist - Machine Shop

Hermeus is a venture-backed defense aviation company reclaiming the lost art of rapid iterative prototyping to build the fastest aircraft in the world today. By prioritizing relentless hardware iteration, we deliver high-speed systems at the pace of the modern battlefield. We work with the Department of War to provide the high-speed capabilities our nation and its allies need to maintain a durable, asymmetric advantage. We are looking for a Purchasing Specialist to support the procurement of direct materials, with a primary focus on precision machined parts and fabricated components. This role is a key execution position within the supply chain organization and is critical to ensuring on-time delivery of hardware for prototype and vehicle programs. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, proactive, and comfortable operating in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment. Responsibilities:

Support sourcing, onboarding, and maintenance of machining and fabrication suppliers (CNC machining, turning, 5-axis, sheet metal, weldments)

Execute routine purchasing activities including:

Issuing purchase orders and blanket purchase orders

Tracking order status and expediting deliveries as required

Ensuring purchase order accuracy and completeness

Support supplier onboarding and maintenance, including:

Collecting required supplier information and documentation

Maintaining accurate supplier master data in the ERP system

Coordinate with Engineering and Quality to support:

Drawing revisions and part configuration accuracy

First Article Inspection (FAI) and quality documentation

Maintain strong working relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders

Monitor supplier performance and escalate delivery, quality, or pricing issues as needed

Coordinate with Engineering, Manufacturing, Finance, and Quality to ensure purchasing requirements are met

Support invoice resolution by assisting with purchase order and receipt discrepancies

Assist with material cost reviews, basic cost variance analysis, and cost control initiatives 
Ensure procurement activities comply with internal policies, procedures, and program requirements 

Requirements:

Strong negotiation skills especially related to cost and payment terms

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Ability to work cross-functionally in a dynamic environment

Strong work ethic with a high degree of flexibility

Familiarity with procurement/ERP systems 

Preferred Skills & Experience:

Experience supporting direct materials procurement

Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and basic tolerances

Experience in or at an Aerospace or Defense manufacturer

Familiarity with AS9100 / ISO9001 supplier environments

Experience supporting prototype or low-rate production programs

Familiarity with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and Department of Defense FAR Supplement (DFARS)